Methods and systems for optimizing a data structure are disclosed. An example method can comprise categorizing, based on travel information associated with a vehicle, locations according to at least one of a first category and a second category. An example method can comprise generating search criteria configured to select first data for locations categorized with the first category and second data for locations categorized with the second category. The first data can be more detailed than the second data. An example method can comprise receiving information based on the search criteria and providing the information to the vehicle.
  
		  
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			 8.  A method, comprising:
 
receiving, by a network device, a first data structure associated with a vehicle; 
determining that a storage size of the first data structure exceeds a threshold; 
causing, based on the storage size exceeding the threshold, an increase in a storage capacity associated with the vehicle; 
determining, based on the first data structure, travel information identifying at least a plurality of locations associated with the vehicle; 
identifying, based on the travel information, search criteria; 
requesting, based on the search criteria and the increase in the storage capacity, a second data structure associated with the vehicle; and 
providing the second data structure to the vehicle. 
1.  A method comprising:
 
determining, by a network device, travel information identifying at least a plurality of locations comprising a travel history associated with a vehicle; 
categorizing, based on the travel information, the plurality of locations according to at least one of a first category or a second category, wherein the first category is associated with at least a portion of data that is not represented in the second category; 
generating search criteria configured to select one or more of first data for locations categorized with the first category or second data for locations categorized with the second category; 
receiving, based on the search criteria, information; 
comparing a storage size of the information to a threshold of a storage capacity associated with the vehicle; 
causing, based on the storage size of the information exceeding the threshold, an increase in the storage capacity; and 
providing, based on the increase in the storage capacity, the information to the vehicle. 
16.  An apparatus, comprising:
 
			  
			  
			  one or more processors; and 
memory storing processor executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to:
 
determine a first data structure comprising first locations and first data associated with the first locations; 
compare a data size of the first data structure to a threshold of a storage capacity associated with a vehicle; 
cause, based on the data size of the first data structure exceeding the threshold, an increase in the storage capacity associated with the vehicle; 
categorize, based on travel information, second locations from a second data structure, wherein the travel information identifies at least a plurality of locations associated with the vehicle; 
generate search criteria configured to select, from the second data structure, third locations and second data associated with the third locations, wherein the search criteria are generated based on at least one of the increase in the storage capacity associated with the vehicle or the categorization of the second locations; and 
update, based on the search criteria, the first data structure. 
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This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/917,678 filed Dec. 18, 2013, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
It is to be understood that both the following general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive, as claimed. Provided are methods and systems for optimizing a data structure. An example method can comprise categorizing, based on travel information associated with a vehicle, locations according to at least one of a first category and a second category. Search criteria can be generated. The search criteria can be configured to select first data for locations categorized with the first category and second data for locations categorized with the second category. The first data can be more detailed than the second data. Information can be received based on the search criteria. The information can be provided to the vehicle.
In another aspect, an example method can comprise receiving search criteria configured to select first data for locations associated with a first category and second data for locations associated with a second category. The first data can be more detailed than the second data. The first locations can be associated with the first category based on travel information of the vehicle. The second locations can be associated with the second category based on the travel information of the vehicle. A data structure can be generated based on the search criteria. Access can be provided to the data structure.
In another aspect, an example method can comprise receiving a first data structure associated with a vehicle. A storage size of the first data structure can be compared to a threshold. Search criteria can be identified based on travel information of the vehicle and the comparison to the threshold. A second data structure associated with the vehicle can be requested based on the search criteria. The second data structure can be provided to the vehicle.
In another aspect, an example system can comprise a first data structure comprising first locations and first data associated with the first locations. The example system can also comprise a computer processor configured to evaluate storage availability for the first data structure and categorize second locations from a second data structure based on travel information associated with a vehicle. The computer processor can be configured to generate search criteria configured to select, from the second data structure, third locations and second data associated with the third locations. The computer processor can be configured to generate the search criteria based on at least one of the storage availability and the categorization of the second locations. The computer processor can be further configured to update the first data structure based on the search criteria.
Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description which follows or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the methods and systems;
Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.
As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.
“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.
Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.
The present methods and systems may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previous and following description.
As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the methods and systems may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software) embodied in the storage medium. More particularly, the present methods and systems may take the form of web-implemented computer software. Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.
Embodiments of the methods and systems are described below with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods, systems, apparatuses and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create a means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readable instructions for implementing the function specified in the flowchart block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations support combinations of means for performing the specified functions, combinations of steps for performing the specified functions and program instruction means for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions or steps, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
The present disclosure relates to methods and systems for generating data structures. Specifically, the methods and systems relate to data structures for navigational systems of vehicles (e.g., aircraft, boats, cars). For example, data structures can comprise a plurality of locations and data associated with the locations. The locations can be associated with navigation procedures for operating the vehicle. For example, the data structure can provide information for a navigational system of aircraft. The present methods and systems can be used to refine data structures in order to limit the data structures. For example, the present methods and systems can generate and refine search criteria used to create a data structure. The search criteria can be specific to a particular vehicle. For example, the search criteria can be based on the categorization of locations associated with the vehicle. In one aspect, the present methods and systems can be configured to categorize the locations, for a specific vehicle, based on the travel information associated with the vehicle. After a data structure is generated, the storage size of the data structure can be compared to a threshold (e.g., a threshold specific to the vehicle or type of vehicle). If the storage size exceeds the threshold, then the search criteria can be refined and another data structure can be generated based on the refined search criteria. In one aspect, the process of generating data structures can be repeated on a regular cycle.
In one aspect, the system 100 can comprise a first device 102 configured to collect data. For example, the first device 102 can comprise a collection unit 104 configured to collect and store data. In one aspect, the collection unit 104 can be configured to collect data related to a plurality of locations, such as geographic locations. Example locations can comprise ports (e.g., airports, harbors, stations), waypoints, refueling points, and the like. As an illustration, the collection unit 104 can receive data from one or more external data sources. For example, the data can be received from the nation state Aeronautical Information Services. In one aspect, the data can be received in electronic form or paper form. The data can be processed for storage in the collection unit 104. As an illustration, the data can be received as an Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). In one aspect, the data can comprise airports, procedure, fixes, navigational aids, airways, and/or the like. As a further illustration 
In one aspect, the first device 102 can comprise a data processing unit 106 configured to generate data structures. For example, the first device 102 can receive requests for data based on search criteria. In response to a request, the first device 102 can generate a data structure, such as a database, comprising data from the collection unit 104. For example, the data processing unit 106 can be configured to select data stored by the collection unit 104 based on the search criteria provided by a requesting user and/or device. In one aspect, a request for data can comprise parameters indicative of a type of data structure and/or format. The data processing unit 106 can be configured to format the results of the search according to the parameters. For example, the parameters can be indicative of a type of data structure, such as a type of database. The parameters can be indicative of a device, such as a vehicle, on which the data structure is intended to be stored. In another aspect, the data processing unit 106 can convert ARINC 424 standard data file to a navigation database file of a flight management system of a vehicle. ARINC Specification 424-20 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Additionally, all prior and subsequent versions to version 20 of ARINC 424 are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
In one aspect, the system 100 can comprise a second device 108 configured to manage data for one or more vehicles 110. The second device 108 can comprise a travel unit 112 configured to store and manage travel information. For example, the travel information can comprise travel history for one or more of the vehicles 110. The travel history can comprise a list of locations that the vehicle 110 has traveled to over a time period. As another example, the travel information can comprise travel plans for one or more vehicles 110. The travel plans can comprise a list of locations the vehicle 110 is scheduled to arrive at during a time period. In one aspect, the travel unit 112 can maintain a list of locations for one or more fleets of vehicles. For example, the travel unit 112 can maintain a list of all locations traveled to or scheduled to travel to by any of the vehicles of the fleet. The travel unit 112 can track which vehicles are associated with which locations. The travel unit 112 can also maintain a list of data associated with the locations.
In one aspect, the second device 108 can comprise a categorization unit 114 configured to categorize locations. In one aspect, the categorization unit 114 can receive and/or maintain a list of locations and data associated with the locations. For example, the list of locations and data associated with the locations can be based on travel information collected by the travel unit 112. The categorization unit 114 can be configured to categorize locations for specific vehicles 110. The categorization unit 114 can categorize locations according to categories, such as a first category, second category, third category, fourth category, and the like. The first category can indicate that the location is an intended and/or planned destination of a vehicle. The second category can indicate that a location is an alternate destination for the vehicle. The third category can indicate that a location is a second alternate destination for the vehicle. The fourth category can indicate that a location is an emergency destination for the vehicle.
In one aspect, one or more categories can be associated with a data hierarchy configured to indicate amounts and/or types of data associated with different categories. For example, the first category can be associated with more data and/or more detailed data than the second category, third category, and fourth categories. The second category can be associated with more data and/or more detailed data than the third category and fourth category. The third category can be associated with more data and/or more detailed data than the fourth category. As described in more detail below. 
In one aspect, the second device 108 can comprise a search unit 116 configured to request data (e.g., organized as a data structure) from the first device 102. The search unit 116 can be configured to generate search criteria for requesting data from the first device 102. In one aspect, the search criteria can be selected to retrieve data relevant to a specific vehicle. For example, the search criteria can be based on a categorization of locations associated with the vehicle by the categorization unit 114. The request can comprise additional search parameters, such a vehicle information (e.g., vehicle identifier, vehicle type) and data information (e.g., data structure type, data structure size).
In one aspect, the second device 108 can comprise an analysis unit 118 configured to receive and analyze data. For example, the analysis unit 118 can analyze data received from the first device 102 in response to a request from the search unit 116. The analysis unit 118 can be configured to determine the storage size of the data. The analysis unit 118 can be configured to determine a storage capacity of a vehicle associated with the data. The analysis unit 118 can be configured to compare the storage size of the data to the storage capacity of the vehicle. The analysis unit 118 can also compare the storage size to one or more thresholds. The one or more thresholds can be based can on the storage capacity of the vehicle. As an illustration, a first threshold can comprise 90 percent of storage capacity. A second threshold can comprise 95 percent of storage capacity. A third threshold can comprise 100 percent of storage capacity.
If the storage size of the data meets or exceeds one or more thresholds, the analysis unit 118 can be configured to further refine the data. For example, the analysis unit 118 can provide refinement criteria to the search unit 116, and the search unit 116 can request the data again based on the refinement criteria. As another example, the analysis unit 118 can be configured to remove and/or delete portions of the data. In one aspect, such portions of the data can be removed and/or deleted based on the refinement criteria. In another aspect, specific refinement criteria can be associated with one or more thresholds. For example, first refinement criteria can be associated with the first threshold. Second refinement criteria can be associated with the second threshold. Third refinement criteria can be associated with the third threshold. Example refinement criteria are described by 
In one aspect, the analysis unit 118 can be configured to generate one or more reports based on changes in the data structures. For example, the report can be provided to an agent, such as an operator of the vehicle or a dispatcher associated with the vehicle. The report can be provided to an agent as a bulletin, desktop procedure guides, aircraft flight manual (AFM) supplements, and/or the like. As an illustration, the report can comprise operations constraints of an AFM text, a dispatch checklist (e.g., or Re-Route Checklist), an inflight reclassification change from “Q” to “/A” enroute to alternate location, post divert recover filing outbound considerations (e.g., conventional SID or vector departure), crew procedures for Non-NavDB supported airports, and/or the like.
In one aspect, the system 100 can comprise one or more vehicles 110. A vehicle 110 can comprise a navigation unit 120 configured to assist in navigation of the vehicle 110. For example, the navigation unit 120 can be configured to provide information to an operator (e.g., pilot, captain, driver) of the vehicle. The information can be related to locations relevant to the vehicle. For example, the vehicle 110 can comprise a storage unit 122 configured to receive and store data from first device 102 and/or second device 108. In one aspect, the storage unit 122 can be configured to receive and store data requested by the search unit 116 of the second device 108. For example, the storage unit 122 can store a data structure, such as a database, comprising locations and data associated with locations.
In one aspect, the data structure can be packaged, compiled, or otherwise organized for compatibility with a specific vehicle 110, For example, one vehicle 110 can be associated with a first plurality of locations. Another vehicle 110 can be associated with a second plurality of locations. In some scenarios, some of the locations of the first plurality of locations can be included as locations in the second plurality of locations, and vice versa. In some scenarios, a location of first plurality of locations can be categorized differently than the same location in the second plurality of locations. For example, a location associated with the first category for one vehicle 110 can be associated with the second category, third category, or fourth category for another vehicle 110. For example, different vehicles 110 can be associated with different locations. As another example, one vehicle can be scheduled to visit one location and another vehicle can be scheduled to visit another location. Accordingly, locations can be categorized differently for different vehicles based on current, future, or past travel information. As another example, a data structure can be different for two different vehicles because a storage unit 122 of one vehicle can have different storage requirements (e.g., capacity, format) than a storage unit 122 of another vehicle 110.
In one aspect, the system 100 can comprise a network 124 configured to transfer data to and throughout the system 100. In one aspect, the network 124 can comprise a packet switched network (e.g., interact protocol based network), a non-packet switched network (e.g., quadrature amplitude modulation based network), and/or the like. The network 124 can comprise network adapters, switches, routers, modems, and the like connected through wireless links (e.g., radio frequency, satellite) and/or physical links (e.g., fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, Ethernet cable, or a combination thereof). In one aspect, the network 124 can be configured to provide communication from telephone, cellular, modem, and/or other electronic devices to and throughout the system 100.
As an illustration, the network 124 can transmit requests from the search unit 116 of the second device 108 to the first device 102. The network 124 can transmit the requested data from the first device 102 to the second device 108 and/or one or more vehicles 110. The network 124 can transmit data from the second device 108 to one or more vehicles 110. For example, the second device 108 can be configured to distribute data structures to vehicles 110. In another aspect, the system 100 can comprise one or more data stations 126 configured to receive data for one or more vehicles 110. For example, a data station 126 can be configured to prepare data for delivery to a vehicle 110 through a portable storage device, such as a CD-ROM, flash drive, solid state drive, magnetic disk, memory card, diskette, hard disk, or other storage medium. For example, the portable storage device can be periodically carried by a maintenance worker to the vehicle 110 and uploaded to the vehicle 110.
In one aspect, the present methods and systems can be implemented as part of the management of one or more aircrafts for a fleet of aircrafts. For example, each aircraft can comprise a Flight Management System (FMS) configured to operate with a data structure, such as a Navigational Database (NavDB) that is generated based on the Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated (ARINC) 28 day cycle. The data in the data structure can be used in the operation of the aircraft by providing flight navigation guidance through all phases of flight. This data that is typically stored in the NavDB has been growing in overall size at an annual rate of 8%. Unfortunately, FMS computer (FMC) in aircraft can have limited storage capacity. There has not been a recognized method of organizing NavDB content based on the storage constraints of the NavDB. In one aspect, an optimization process can be designed to first generate a baseline data structure to be included in each aircraft's database, standardize the content, and then remove selected portions of data (e.g., or generate a data structure without the portions of the data) to provide a data structure below the FMC storage capacity and accommodate expected future growth. Such process is illustrated in further detail by the following figures and description.
In one aspect, the first category 202 can be associated with locations that are destinations of a vehicle (e.g., aircraft). A destination can comprise a location that a particular vehicle goes for revenue freight service, a scheduled destination, and/or the like. In one aspect, the data hierarchy 200 can specify that all available procedures be made available for locations associated with the first category 202. For example, (RNAV SIDS, STARS and ALL APPROACHES). In one aspect, the first category 202 can have the highest level of services (e.g., approaches) available, and consequentially requires more storage space.
In one aspect, the second category 204 can be associated with locations that are alternate destinations of a vehicle (e.g., aircraft). For example, an alternate destination can comprise an airport that is, or may be used on a flight plan route (FPR) as an alternate (ALTN) for a given destination (DEST). This second category 204 can specify the same data as the first category, except without RNAV SIDS or CONVENTIONAL STARS. Eliminating this data saves considerable storage space. If a conventional STAR becomes assigned inbound to a specific airport, the crew can build the conventional STAR in the FMC from the Chart without filing code degradation or consequence. When traveling outbound, the aircraft can be filed on a conventional SID.
In one aspect, the third category 206 can be associated with locations that are diverted destinations of a vehicle (e.g., aircraft). A diverted destination can comprise a demoted alternate destination, or a promoted emergency destination. Locations associated with the third category 206 can be airports that have particularly challenging qualities (e.g. no conventional IAPS) that support inclusion of only RNAV Instrument Approaches and airport data. In one aspect, locations associated with the third category can with STDs, STARS or CONVENTIONAL TAPs. In some scenarios, there can be advanced option technique to add ILS/LOC and RNAV STARS depending on memory utilization.
In one aspect, the fourth category 208 can be associated with locations that are emergency destinations of an aircraft. An emergency destination can comprise a good airfield but not a freight destination, or an alternate, that is still suitable or expected for city pairs and/or along route of flight. Locations associated with fourth category can only be provided with standard Airport Data. For example, such locations can be without SIDS, STARS or IAPS. For example, locations associated with the fourth category can have data for all runway (RWY) and airport definition data, and any associated Navaid frequencies associated with the location.
In one aspect, the process 300 can begin with a clean slate phase. In the clean slate phase, the process 300 can begin by erasing the existing data structure (e.g., NavDB) of a vehicle so that the data structure contains no specialized contents. In some implementations, the contents of the data structure can be saved in another location before erasing the data structure. The deleted contents of the data structure can then be reviewed and compared to a subsequent data structure that is generated. For example, the old data structure and the new data structure can be compared to see what data has been eliminated. As an example, airports, company routes, custom procedures, non-compulsory waypoints, National Reference Points, or guided VFR procedures can be removed from the data structure after the data structure is erased. Additionally, any other unnecessary and/or unauthorized Data (ARINC Field selectable) can be removed. As a result of erasing the data structure, the waypoint count in the data structure can be reduced to zero.
After the clean slate phase, the process 300 can proceed to a prospecting phase. During the prospecting phase, locations can be discovered and qualified. For example, a search can be performed to identify all known locations that a vehicle might visit, such as revenue destinations currently being planned and flown. The result of the search can be a list of airports that the vehicle flies to that is fleet specific. For example, the locations can be selected from a list of locations maintained by the travel unit 112 of 
In one aspect, the search criteria can be based on Boolean criteria provided by the data provider. For example, in addition to search criteria related to the categorization of locations, the search criteria can be related and/or based on: area of operation (AOR) definition (e.g., theater of operations region selection, default criteria (e.g., options), condition (e.g., less than 7000 foot runway, Victor Airways), filters, GEO areas, Multiple GEO areas, specialized data (e.g., HAR, Orphan T and Q Routes, Non-Compulsory, Enroute Holding).
As a further explanation, the search criteria can comprise rules provided to a EMS data integrator. In one aspect, the rules can comprise waypoint selection rules. The waypoint selection rules can be selected ON or OFF. When selected ON, waypoints can be filtered based on the category of the waypoint coded by ARINC 424 waypoint types. Example categories can comprise: waypoints referenced by STARS, Visual Reporting Points, Unnamed uncharted intersections, Special Use Airspace and Off-Route intersection points, waypoints referenced by SIDs, Instrument Approaches, Pitch and Catch points, grid waypoints, waypoints referenced by multiple, floaters, Latitude and Longitude with all zeroes in minutes and seconds, all waypoints not already included via other rules, and/or the like.
In one aspect, the search criteria can be based on a custom list of standard waypoints. For example, a group of points can be entirely excluded based on a search criterion or rule. If certain waypoints from this group of waypoints are identified as operationally important in day to day operations of a vehicle, then such waypoint can be specified on the custom list for inclusion in the data. In one aspect, the search criteria can be based on rules that limit the types of airways. For example, the search criteria can include or exclude Victor (e.g., low) Jet, Tacan, or GPS supported RNP types called T and Q routes. For example, a rule can define a distance from a location (e.g., airfield). A rule can specify certain types of airways based on whether the airway is within the defined distance. In one aspect, the search criteria can request locations with a runway that is less than or more than a specified runway length. In one aspect, the search criteria can specify (e.g., for inclusion or exclusion) data associated a set of countries by referring to region/Area or by Country Codes (e.g., ICAO codes). As a further example, 
In one aspect, the search criteria can specify any combination of Approaches, SIDS, STARs for specific locations (e.g., airports), as well as the ability to limit approach types at specific locations. In one aspect, the search criteria can comprise a rule to remove a particular type of instrument approach, such as all NDBs, or RNAV (RNP)'s, or both, or any other combination. The search criteria can also comprise rules to turn off duplicate types of instrument approaches to the same runway (RWY). For example, if there are four RNAV (OPS) approaches, the search criteria can specify inclusion of only the primary approach.
In one aspect, the search criteria can specify geometric areas (e.g., polygons on the earth surface), and rules and exceptions (e.g., as described herein) can be applied to such areas. The search criteria can define Theater or Area of Operation (AOR).
In another aspect, search criteria can be further defined for each geometric area defined by a shape such as polygon. These search criteria can be applied, or nested to include or exclude as necessary to pair the data to a manageable size. For example, smaller geographic areas can be defined within larger geographic areas. As a further illustration. 
In one aspect, during the generation of the data structure search criteria related to the third category can be omitted. This option allows for the data structure to function as baseline for future generation of data structures. For example, as illustrated in 
In one aspect, the data structure can consist of relevant locations, such as airports, but further adjustment can be applied to the data structure and/or search criteria such that the data structure comprises only data necessary to operations as specified in the data hierarchy. For example, in order to prevent of data structures from being above storage limits, several thresholds can be used to evaluate the data structure. For example thresholds can be pre-defined at 90 percent and 95 percent of total storage capacity of a vehicle. In one aspect, one or more thresholds can have a prescribed set of structured actions to reduce the next cycle's contents to remain below the storage capacity.
In one aspect, a data structure can be oversized when the data structure exceeds the storage capacity of the vehicle for which the data structure is intended. Oversize conditions can be responded to with immediate, pre-planned and briefed steps with associated consequences. For example, if a data structure is oversized, it can be important to quickly respond to the data provider with refined search criteria in order to generate a smaller data structure. After the data structure is trimmed to an undersized quantity, the data structure can be produce and distributed. Additionally, management can be notified of the preplanned operational consequence. In one aspect, a variety of search criteria can be suggested in order reduce the size of the data structure. The search criteria can be based on the following policies. These suggested search criteria can be approved and provided to the data provider.
In one aspect, the search criteria can be refined to produce a smaller data structure as follows. The search criteria can specify that waypoints that are referenced (e.g., Referenced Only waypoint) can be selected for procedures and airways. Such criteria can remove all non-essential waypoints not included in a procedure. In one aspect, the search criteria can be refined incrementally over several build cycle of the data structure. For example, all non-reference waypoints can be included in the 75 NM circle around each location (e.g., airport), some locations or only the destination locations—or all at once. The search criteria can specify that only one JAP type per RWY end be included in the data structure. Such criteria can remove duplicate or multiple versions of IAP and all associated extra waypoints. The search criteria can specify that Victor Airways can be removed that are outside of 75 NM of the airport list. Such criteria allows for removal of commonly unnecessary points.
In one aspect, if the greater storage capacity is desired, an additional storage device can be activated, such as Gemini. Gemini can be a soft memory expansion that is not available on all aircraft and comes with monthly fee. Use of Gemini can comprise hiding data and procedures in Custom files that may warrant need for additional crew training. Because of this complication, use of Gemini should be the last resort.
In one aspect, when a data structure is greater than 95 percent of the storage capacity (e.g., but not oversized), the following policies can guide refinement: consider and/or redefine area or theater of operations (AOR) definition associated with a vehicle, verify that the locations continue to be categorized correctly and remove any unnecessary locations, adjust or make inclusive GEO Areas, remove required navigation performance authorization required procedures (RNP) (AR), restrict the second category locations to only RNAV (GPS) IAPs and RNAV STARS, and/or the like.
As a further explanation, when a data structure (e.g., NavDB) has exceeded 95% of a limiting resource capacity (e.g., Memory Space, Procedure Count, Airport Count, Waypoint Count) but still under 100% the data structure is still considered “undersize.” The data structure is close to exceeding storage capacity (e.g., oversize in the near future, maybe next cycle). In some scenarios, the threshold value of 95% can be a good threshold at which to redefine the conditions and utility of the current contents and function of this data structure. Thus, validation and/or re-validation of the locations and associated categories (e.g., Destinations, Alternates and Emergency Airfields) can be performed. If the size of the data structure is not reduced enough by manipulation of the search criteria, then geometric areas (e.g., polygons on the earth surface) can be made with rules and exceptions applied within the areas. This action can define, at least in part, a finite Theater or Area of Operation (AOR). The area of operations can be associated with one or more vehicles. An AOR is generally less than the whole world and can provide geometric boundaries associated with activity (e.g., travel plan, travel history) of a vehicle.
In one aspect, when a data structure is greater than 90 percent of the storage capacity (e.g., but less than 95 percent), the following policies can guide refinement: remove High Altitude Reference Waypoints (e.g., suggest partial remove first criteria, such as all except East of KIND), remove ALL RVFPs (FMS VISUALs procedures), remove routes not referencing ground based navigational aids such as T and Q routes (e.g., suggest only a partial removal first), remove Country Codes/region selection (e.g., suggest removal of AFRICA), verify that the locations are categorized properly (e.g., destination, alternative, divert, emergency) and remove all unnecessary data, adjust or make inclusive geographic (GEO) Areas (e.g., country codes and ICAO codes), and/or the like. As previously explained, 
As a further explanation, when a data structure is greater than 90% storage capacity of a vehicle but still less than 95%, some mild modification to the data structure can be performed (e.g., by generating a new data structure or editing a data structure. As an example, High Altitude Reference Waypoints (HARS) are a set of waypoints, also called Navigational Reference System (NRS), that the FAA has created to create a grid across the country for high-altitude, RNAV-equipped aircraft. In one aspect, HARS/NRS waypoints that are never or rarely used (e.g., or used less than a threshold amount) can be removed from the data structure (e.g., by search criteria). For example, a location can be associated with HARS waypoints on both the west side and east side of the location. As a further example, HARS waypoints on the East side of the location can be removed from the data structure but HARS waypoints on the West of the location can remain in the data structure. As another example, any procedures that are restricted from actual Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) can be removed. Such procedures can comprise RNAV VISUAL FLIGHT PROCEDURES (RVFPs) and FMS Visuals. Operationally, these procedures can be substituted by Radar Vectors to final or an actual IMC capable procedure in the EMS. As another example, T and Q routes can be removed. For example, T and Q routes are RNAV based routes across the country that do not reference any ground based Navaids. T and Q routes can be so numerous that they can be substituted with other options. For example, T and Q routes can be substituted for all Jet Routes and a small combination of HARS waypoints in an include list tray suffice.
As a further illustration, example search criteria for an airplane can be as shown in Table 1, Table 2, and/or Table 3. For example, default search criteria can be defined as shown in Table 1. As another example, search criteria can be defined for a variety of groups, such as by geographic area, by area code, and/or the like as shown in Table 1. Search criteria can be defined by airport group as shown in Table 1 and Table 2. In one aspect, airport groups can be defined based on the category (e.g., destination, alternate, divert, emergency) associated with an airport as shown in Table 1 and Table 2. For example, search criteria can be organized by airport groups. As another example, selection criteria can comprise a list of waypoints, airways, and/or the like as shown in Table 3. For example, the criteria can specify specific information to include and/or exclude for certain criteria. For example, all procedures, no procedures, and/or the like for a given criteria can be specified. For specific categories (e.g., default, geographic area, airport group, ICAO code), rules can be selected for corresponding record types, such as AIRPORT, AIRPORT NDB, AIRPORT WAYPOINT, RUNWAY, ENROUTE NAVAID, LOCALIZER, ENROUTE NBD, ENROUTE WAYPOINT, ENROUTE AIRWAY, APPROACH, SIDS, STARS, and/or the like.
 
TABLE 1 
 
 
 
Selection Criteria for NAVDB: F77 
 
 
 
 
 
General Criteria  
None Selected 
 
 
 
Default Criteria 
 
Record Type 
Select 
 
 
 
AIRPORT 
Referenced records only 
 
AIRPORT NDB 
Referenced records only 
 
AIRPORT  
Referenced records only 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
RUNWAY 
Referenced records only 
 
ENROUTE NAVAID 
Include All 
 
LOCALIZER 
Referenced records only 
 
ENROUTE NBD 
Include All 
 
ENROUTE  
By Rules (see below) 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
Rules: 
INCLUDE FLOATERS 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE SUA AND OFFROUTE 
Apply 
 
 INTERSECTION POINTS 
 
 
 INCLUDE PITCH AND CATCH  
Apply 
 
 POINTS 
 
 
ENROUTE AIRWAY 
By Rules (see below) 
 
 
Rules: 
EXCLUDE TACAN AIRWAYS 
Apply 
 
APPROACH 
Referenced records only 
 
 
SIDS 
Referenced records only 
 
 
STARS 
Referenced records only 
 
 
 
AIF Runway Length  
None Selected 
 
 
Limit 
 
 
 
RNP (nms) 
None Selected 
 
 
 
Selection By Geographic Area 
 
Geographic Area Name: GE0_1 
 
Seq # 
Latitude 
Longitude 
 
 
 
 
10 
N90000000 
W180000000 
 
 
20 
N90000000 
E180000000 
 
 
30 
S90000000 
E180000000 
 
 
40 
S90000000 
W180000000 
 
 
 
Record Type 
Selection Rule 
 
 
 
 
AIRPORT 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
AIRPORT NDB 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
AIRPORT  
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
 
RUNWAY 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
ENROUTE NAVAID 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
LOCALIZER 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
ENROUTE NBD 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
ENROUTE  
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
 
ENROUTE AIRWAY 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
APPROACH 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
SIDS 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
STARS 
Apply Default Criteria 
 
 
 
Selection By  
None Selected 
 
 
Area Code 
 
 
 
Selection By 
None Selected 
 
 
ICAO Code 
 
 
 
Selection by Airport Group 
 
Airport Group: ALTERNATES_RNAV_ I 
 
Record Type 
Selection Rule 
 
 
 
 
AIRPORT 
Include All 
 
 
AIRPORT NDB 
Include All 
 
 
AIRPORT  
Reference Only 
 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
 
RUNWAY 
By Rules (see below) 
 
 
Rules:  
INCLUDE LENGTH >= 6000 
Apply 
 
LOCALIZER 
Reference Only 
 
 
APPROACH 
By Rules (See below) 
 
 
Rules:  
INCLUDE MULTIPLE APPROACHES  
Apply 
 
 ALSO 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 0 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 1 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 2 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 3 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 4 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 5 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR A 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR B 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR C 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR G 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR L 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR P 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR U 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES U 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES I 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES J 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES M 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES B 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES D 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES L 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES N 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES P 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES Q 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES R 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES S 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES U 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES V 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES W 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES X 
 
 
 EXCLUDE RNAV VISUALS 
Appy 
 
SIDS 
Exclude All 
 
 
STARS 
By Rules (see below) 
 
 
Rules:  
INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES 4 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES 5 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES 6 
 
 
 
AirportGroup: DESTINATIONS_ALLP I 
 
Record Type 
Selection Rule 
 
 
 
 
AIRPORT 
Include All 
 
 
AIRPORT NDB 
Include All 
 
 
AIRPORT  
Reference Only 
 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
 
RUNWAY 
By Rules (see below) 
 
 
Rules:  
INCLUDE LENGTH >= 6500 
Apply 
 
LOCALIZER 
Reference Only 
 
 
APPROACH 
By Rules (See below) 
 
 
Rules:  
INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES G 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES I 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES J 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES M 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES B 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES D 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES L 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES N 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES P 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES R 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES S 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES U 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES V 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES W 
 
 
 INCLUDE ROUTE TYPES X 
 
 
 EXCLUDE RNAV VISUALS 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE MULTIPLE APPROACHES  
Apply 
 
 ALSO 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 0 
Apply 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 1 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 2 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 3 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 4 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR 5 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR A 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR B 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR C 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR P 
 
 
 INCLUDE GPS_FMS_INDICATOR U 
 
 
SIDS 
Include All 
 
 
STARS 
Include All 
 
 
 
AirportGroup: EMERGENCY_NO_ I 
 
Record Type 
Selection Rule 
 
 
 
 
AIRPORT 
Include All 
 
 
AIRPORT NDB 
Include All 
 
 
AIRPORT  
Reference Only 
 
 
WAYPOINT 
 
 
 
RUNWAY 
By Rules (see below) 
 
 
Rules:  
INCLUDE LENGTH >= 6500 
Apply 
 
LOCALIZER 
Reference Only 
 
 
APPROACH 
Reference Only 
 
 
SIDS 
Reference Only 
 
 
STARS 
Reference Only 
 
 
 
TABLE 2 
 
 
 
Selection Criteria for NAVDB: F77 
 
Airport Group—Airport List 
 
Airports: 
 
Ident 
ICAO  
ATA/IATA 
Name 
Std/Tld 
 
 
 
Group Names: ALTERNATIVES_RNA_STAR 
 
BIKF 
BI 
KEF 
KEFLAVIK 
Std 
 
CYEG 
CY 
YEG 
EDMONTON INTL 
Std 
 
CYFB 
CY 
YFB 
IQALUIT 
Std 
 
CYHZ 
CY 
YHZ 
STANFIELD INTL 
Std 
 
CYJT 
CY 
YJT 
STEPHENVILLE 
Std 
 
CYMX 
CY 
YMX 
MONTREAL INTL 
Std 
 
 
 
 (MIRABEL) 
 
 
CYOW 
CY 
YOW 
OTTAWA/MACDONALD- 
Std 
 
 
 
 CARTIER INTL 
 
 
CYQB 
CY 
YQB 
QUEBEC/LESAGE INTL 
Std 
 
CYQM 
CY 
YQM 
GREATER MONCTON INTL 
Std 
 
CYQX 
CY 
YQX 
GANDER INTL 
Std 
 
CYUL 
CY 
YUL 
MONTREAL/PIERRE- 
Std 
 
 
 
 ELLIOTT-TRUDEA 
 
 
CYVR 
CY 
YVR 
VANCOUVER INTL 
Std 
 
CYWG 
CY 
YWG 
RICHARDSON INTL 
Std 
 
CYXE 
CY 
YXE 
SASKATOON/DIEFENBAKER 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
CYXY 
CY 
YXY 
WHITEHORSE NIELSEN INTL 
Std 
 
CYYC 
CY 
YYC 
CALGARY INTL 
Std 
 
CYYQ 
CV 
YYQ 
CHURCHILL 
Std 
 
CYYR 
CY 
YYR 
GOOSE BAY 
Std 
 
CYYT 
CY 
YYT 
ST JOHN'S INTL 
Std 
 
CYZF 
CY 
YZF 
YELLOWKNIFE 
Std 
 
EBBR 
EB 
BRU 
BRUSSELS NATIONAL 
Std 
 
EDDL 
ED 
DUS 
DUSSELDORF 
Std 
 
EGKK 
EG 
LGW 
GATWICK 
Std 
 
EGLL 
EG 
LHR 
HEATHROW 
Std 
 
EGPF 
EG 
GLA 
GLASGOW 
Std 
 
EGPH 
EG 
EDI 
EDINBURGH 
Std 
 
EGPK 
EU 
PIK 
PRESTWICK 
Std 
 
EHAM 
EH 
AMS 
SCHIPHOL 
Std 
 
EIDW 
EI 
DUB 
DUBLIN INTL 
Std 
 
EINN 
EI 
SNN 
SHANNON 
Std 
 
EKBI 
EK 
BLL 
BILLUND 
Std 
 
ELLX 
EL 
LUX 
LUXEMBOURG 
Std 
 
EPGD 
EP 
GDN 
LECH WALESA 
Std 
 
EPWA 
EP 
WAW 
CHOPIN 
Std 
 
KBFI 
K1 
BFI 
BOEING FIELD/KING CO 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
KGEG 
K1 
GEG 
SPOKANE INTL 
Std 
 
KPDX 
K1 
PDX 
PORTLAND INTL 
Std 
 
KCOS 
K2 
COS 
CITY OF COLORADO 
Std 
 
 
 
 SPRINGS MUN 
 
 
KDEN 
K2 
DEN 
DENVER INTL 
Std 
 
KLAS 
K2 
LAS 
MC CARRAN INTL 
Std 
 
KSMF 
K2 
SMF 
SACRAMENTO INTL 
Std 
 
KDSM 
K3 
DSM 
DES MOINES INTL 
Std 
 
KFAR 
K3 
FAR 
HECTOR INTL 
Std 
 
KICT 
K3 
ICT 
WICHITA MID-CONTINENT 
Std 
 
KMCI 
K3 
MCI 
KANSAS CITY INTL 
Std 
 
KMSP 
K3 
MSP 
MINNEAPOLIS-ST PAUL 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL/WOLD- 
 
 
KSGF 
K3 
SGF 
SPRINGFIELD-BRANSON 
Std 
 
 
 
 NATL 
 
 
KSTL 
K3 
STL 
LAMBERT-ST LOUIS INTL 
Std 
 
KLIT 
K4 
LIT 
BILL & HILLARY CLINTON 
Std 
 
 
 
 NATL/AD 
 
 
KSHV 
K4 
SHV 
SHREVEPORT REGL 
Std 
 
KTUL 
K4 
TUL 
TULSA INTL 
Std 
 
KCLE 
K5 
CLE 
CLEVELAND-HOPKINS INTL 
Std 
 
KLCK 
K5 
LCK 
RICKENBACKER INTL 
Std 
 
KMKE 
K5 
MKE 
GEN MITCHELL INTL 
Std 
 
KSDF 
K5 
SDF 
LOUISVILLE INTL- 
Std 
 
 
 
 STANDIFORD 
 
 
KBDL 
K6 
BDL 
BRADLEY INTL 
Std 
 
KBGR 
K6 
BGR 
BANGOR INTL 
Std 
 
KBWI 
K6 
BWI 
BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL THUR 
 
 
KMHT 
K6 
MHT 
MANCHESTER 
Std 
 
KPHL 
K6 
PHL 
PHILADELPHIA INTL 
Std 
 
KBHM 
K7 
BHM 
BIRMINGHAM- 
Std 
 
 
 
 SHUTTLESWORTH INTL 
 
 
KBNA 
K7 
BNA 
NASHVILLE INTL 
Std 
 
KCLT 
K7 
CLT 
CHARLOTTE/DOUGLAS 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
KNQA 
K7 
NQA 
MILLINGTON REGL 
Std 
 
 
 
 JETPORT 
 
 
KTYS 
K7 
TYS 
MC GHEE TYSON 
Std 
 
LEMD 
LE 
MAD 
BARAJAS 
Std 
 
LEST 
LE 
SCQ 
SANTIAGO 
Std 
 
LFPO 
LF 
ORY 
ORLY 
Std 
 
LPAZ 
LP 
SMA 
SANTA MARIA 
Std 
 
LPLA 
LP 
TER 
LAJES AB 
Std 
 
LPPR 
LP 
OPO 
FRANCISCO SA CARNEIRO 
Std 
 
LPPT 
LP 
LIS 
LISBON 
Std 
 
LSZH 
LS 
ZRH 
ZURICH 
Std 
 
OAIX 
OA 
OAI 
BAGRAM 
Std 
 
OBBI 
OB 
BAH 
BAHRAIN INTL 
Std 
 
OERY 
OE 
 RIYADH AB 
Std 
 
OMAA 
OM 
AUH 
ABU DHABI INTL 
Std 
 
OMRK 
OM 
RKT 
RAS AL KHAIMAH INTL 
Std 
 
OMSJ 
OM 
SKI 
SHARJAH INTL 
Std 
 
ODMS 
OO 
MCT 
MUSCAT INTL 
Std 
 
ORBI 
OR 
BGW 
BAGHDAD INTL 
Std 
 
OTBD 
OT 
DOH 
DOHA INTL 
Std 
 
PABR 
PA 
BRW 
WILEY POST-WILL ROGERS 
Std 
 
 
 
 MEML 
 
 
PACD 
PA 
CDB 
COLD BAY 
Std 
 
PAED 
PA 
EDF 
ELMENDORF AFB 
Std 
 
PAEI 
PA 
EIL 
EIELSON AFB 
Std 
 
PAKN 
PA 
AKN 
KING SALMON 
Std 
 
PASY 
PA 
SYA 
EARECKSON AS 
Std 
 
PGSN 
PG 
SPN 
FRANCISCO C. ADA/SAIPAN 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
PGUA 
PG 
UAM 
ANDERSEN AFB 
Std 
 
PGUM 
PG 
GUM 
INTL HICKAM 
Std 
 
PHIK 
PH 
HIK 
AFB HILO 
Std 
 
 PH 
ITO 
INTL 
Std 
 
PMDY 
PM 
MDY 
HENDERSON FIELD 
Std 
 
PWAK 
PW 
AWK 
WAKE I 
Std 
 
RCKH 
RC 
KHH 
KAOHSIUNG INTL 
Std 
 
RJCC 
RJ 
CTS 
NEW CHITOSE 
Std 
 
RJCH 
RJ 
HKD 
HAKODATE 
Std 
 
RJFF 
RI 
FUK 
FUKUOKA 
Std 
 
RJFK 
RJ 
KOJ 
KAGOSHIMA 
Std 
 
RJGG 
RJ 
NGO 
CHUBU CENTRAIR 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTERNATIONAL 
 
 
RJOO 
RJ 
ITM 
OSAKA INTL 
Std 
 
RJTT 
RJ 
HND 
TOKYO (HANEDA) INTL 
Std 
 
RJTY 
RJ 
OKO 
YOKOTA AB 
Std 
 
RKPC 
RK 
CJU 
JEJU INTL 
Std 
 
RKPK 
RK 
PUS 
GIMHAE INTL 
Std 
 
RKSO 
RK 
OSN 
OSAN AB 
Std 
 
RKSS 
RK 
GMP 
GIMPO INTL 
Std 
 
ROAH 
RO 
OKA 
NAHA 
Std 
 
RODN 
RO 
DNA 
KADENA AB 
Std 
 
RPLC 
RP 
CRK 
DIOSDADO MACAPAGAL 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
TXKF 
TX 
BDA 
L F WADE INTL 
Std 
 
UAAA 
UA 
ALA 
ALMATY 
Std 
 
UACC 
UA 
TSE 
ASTANA 
Std 
 
UAII 
UA 
CIT 
SHYMKENT 
Std 
 
UAKK 
UA 
KGF 
KARAGANDA 
Std 
 
UATT 
UA 
AKX 
AKTOBE 
Std 
 
UBBB 
UB 
GYD 
HEYDAR ALIYEV INTL 
Std 
 
UCFM 
UC 
FRU 
MANAS 
Std 
 
UDYZ 
UD 
EVN 
ZVARTNOTS 
Std 
 
UHHH 
UH 
KHV 
NOVY 
Std 
 
UHMA 
UH 
DYR 
UGOLNY 
Std 
 
UHMM 
UH 
GDX 
SOKOL 
Std 
 
UHPP 
UH 
PKC 
YELIZOVO 
Std 
 
UHSS 
UH 
UUS 
KHOMUTOVO 
Std 
 
UHWW 
UH 
VVO 
KNEVICHI 
Std 
 
UTDD 
UT 
DYU 
DUSHANBE 
Std 
 
UTSS 
UT 
SKD 
SAMARKAND 
Std 
 
UTTT 
UT 
TAS 
YUZHNY 
Std 
 
VMMC 
VM 
MFM 
MACAO INTL 
Std 
 
VOHS 
VO 
HYD 
RAJIV GANDHI INTL 
Std 
 
VOMM 
VO 
MAA 
CHENNAI INTL 
Std 
 
VYYY 
VY 
RGN 
YANGON INTL 
Std 
 
WMKK 
WM 
KUL 
KUALA LUMPUR INTL- 
Std 
 
 
 
 SEPANG 
 
 
WMKP 
WM 
PEN 
PENANG INTL 
Std 
 
ZBSJ 
ZB 
SJW 
ZHENGDING 
Std 
 
ZBTJ 
ZB 
TSN 
BINHAI 
Std 
 
ZBYN 
ZB 
TYN 
WUSU 
Std 
 
ZGHA 
ZG 
CSX 
HUANGHUA 
Std 
 
ZHHH 
ZH 
WUH 
TIANHE 
Std 
 
ZSHC 
ZS 
HGH 
XIAOSHAN 
Std 
 
ZSJN 
ZS 
TNA 
YAOQIANG 
Std 
 
ZSQD 
ZS 
TAO 
LIUTING 
Std 
 
ZSSS 
ZS 
SHA 
HONGQIAO 
Std 
 
ZUUU 
ZU 
CTU 
SHUANGLIU 
Std 
 
ZUXC 
ZU 
XIC 
QINGSHAN 
Std 
 
ZYHB 
ZY 
HRB 
TAIPING 
Std 
 
ZYTX 
ZY 
SHE 
TAOXIAN 
Std 
 
Group Name: DESTINATIONS_ALLPRC 
 
CYYZ 
CY 
YYZ 
TORONTO/PEA.RSON INTL 
Std 
 
EDDF 
ED 
FRA 
FRANKFURT/MAIN 
Std 
 
EDDK 
ED 
CON 
COLOGNE-BONN 
Std 
 
EDDM 
ED 
MUC 
MUNICH 
Std 
 
EGCC 
EG 
MAN 
MANCHESTER 
Std 
 
EGSS 
EG 
STN 
STANSTED 
Std 
 
KPAE 
K1 
PAE 
SNOHOMISH CO 
Std 
 
KSEA 
K1 
SEA 
SEATTLE-TACOMA INTL 
Std 
 
KLAX 
K2 
LAX 
LOS ANGELES INTL 
Std 
 
KOAK 
K2 
OAK 
METRO OAKLAND INTL 
Std 
 
KONT 
K2 
ONT 
ONTARIO INTL 
Std 
 
KSAN 
K2 
SAN 
SAN DIEGO INTL 
Std 
 
KSFO 
K2 
SFO 
SAN FRANCISCO INTL 
Std 
 
KSLC 
K2 
SLC 
SALT LAKE CITY INTL 
Std 
 
KARA 
K4 
ARA 
ACADIANA REGL 
Std 
 
KDFW 
K4 
DFW 
DALLAS-FT WORTH INTL 
Std 
 
KDTW 
K5 
DTW 
DETROIT METRO WAYNE CO 
Std 
 
KIND 
K5 
IND 
INDIANAPOLIS INTL 
Std 
 
KORD 
K5 
ORD 
CHICAGO-O'HARE INTL 
Std 
 
KBOS 
K6 
BOS 
LOGAN INTL 
Std 
 
KEWR 
K6 
EWR 
NEWARK LIBERTY INTL 
Std 
 
KIAD 
K6 
IAD 
WASHINGTON DULLES INTL 
Std 
 
KJFK 
K6 
JFK 
KENNEDY INTL 
Std 
 
KATL 
K7 
ATL 
HARTSFTELD-JACKSON 
Std 
 
 
 
 ATLANTA I 
 
 
KCHS 
K7 
CHS 
CHARLESTON AFB/INTL 
Std 
 
KHSV 
K7 
HSV 
HUNTSVILLE INTL-JONES 
Std 
 
KMEM 
K7 
MEM 
MEMPHIS INTL 
Std 
 
LFPG 
LF 
CDG 
CHARLES-DE-GAULLE 
Std 
 
LIMC 
LI 
MXP 
MALPENSA 
Std 
 
OMDB 
OM 
DXB 
DUBAI INTL 
Std 
 
PAFA 
PA 
FAI 
FAIRBANKS INTL 
Std 
 
PANC 
PA 
ANC 
STEVENS ANCHORAGE INTL 
Std 
 
PHNL 
PH 
HNL 
HONOLULU INTL 
Std 
 
RCTP 
RC 
TPE 
TAIWAN TAOYUAN INTL 
Std 
 
RJAA 
RJ 
NRT 
NARITA INTL 
Std 
 
RJBB 
RJ 
KIX 
KANSAI INTL 
Std 
 
RKSI 
RK 
ICN 
INCHEON INTL 
Std 
 
RPLL 
RP 
MNL 
NINOY AQUINO INTL 
Std 
 
VABB 
VA 
BOM 
CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI INTL 
Std 
 
VHHH 
VH 
HKG 
HONG KONG INTL 
Std 
 
VIDP 
VI 
DEL 
INDIRA GANDHI INTL 
Std 
 
VOBL 
VO 
BLR 
BANGALORE INTL 
Std 
 
WSSS 
WS 
SIN 
CHANGI 
Std 
 
ZBAA 
ZB 
PEK 
BEIJING CAPITAL 
Std 
 
ZGGG 
ZG 
CAN 
BAIYUN 
Std 
 
ZGSZ 
ZG 
SZX 
BAOAN 
Std 
 
ZSPD 
ZS 
PVG 
PUDONG 
Std 
 
ZWWW 
ZW 
URC 
DIWOPU 
Std 
 
Group Name: EMERGENCY_NO_PRCDS 
 
BGSF 
BG 
SFJ 
KANGERLUSSUAQ 
Std 
 
CYGL 
CY 
YGL 
LA GRANDE RIVIERE 
Std 
 
CYQR 
CY 
YQR 
REGINA INTL 
Std 
 
CYVO 
CY 
YVO 
VAL-D'OR 
Std 
 
CYYB 
CY 
YVB 
NORTH BAY 
Std 
 
DAAG 
DA 
ALG 
HOUARI BOUMEDIENE 
Std 
 
DNAA 
DN 
ABV 
NNAMDI AZIKIWE INTL 
Std 
 
DTTA 
DT 
TUN 
CARTHAGE 
Std 
 
EDDP 
ED 
LEJ 
LEIPZIG-HALLE 
Std 
 
EFHK 
EF 
HEL 
VANTAA 
Std 
 
EGAA 
EG 
BFS 
ALDERGROVE 
Std 
 
EGBB 
EG 
BHX 
BIRMINGHAM 
Std 
 
ENBO 
EN 
BOO 
BODO 
Std 
 
ENBR 
EN 
BGO 
FLESLAND 
Std 
 
ENZV 
EN 
SVG 
SOLA 
Std 
 
EYVI 
EY 
VNO 
VILNIUS INTL 
Std 
 
KPHX 
K2 
PHX 
PHOENIX SKY HARBOR 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
KIAH 
K4 
IAH 
GEORGE BUSH 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTERCO NTINENTAL/H 
 
 
KOKC 
K4 
OKC 
WILL ROGERS WORLD 
Std 
 
KPSM 
K6 
PSM 
PORTSMOUTH INTL AT 
Std 
 
 
 
 PEASE 
 
 
KMIA 
K7 
MIA 
MIAMI INTL 
Std 
 
LEAL 
LE 
ALC 
ALICANTE 
Std 
 
LGAV 
LG 
ATH 
ELEFTHERIOS VENIZELOS 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
LIRF 
LI 
FCO 
FIUMICINO 
Std 
 
LLBG 
LL 
TLV 
BEN GURION 
Std 
 
LTBA 
LT 
IST 
ATATURK 
Std 
 
LTCC 
LT 
DIY 
DIYARBAKIR 
Std 
 
OIII 
OI 
THR 
MEHRABAD INTL 
Std 
 
OJAI 
OJ 
AMM 
QUEEN ALIA INTL 
Std 
 
OKBK 
OI 
KWI 
KUWAIT INTL 
Std 
 
OPKC 
OP 
KHI 
JINNAH INTL 
Std 
 
PADK 
PA 
ADK 
ADAK 
Std 
 
PAJN 
PA 
JNU 
JUNEAU INTL 
Std 
 
PAYA 
PA 
YAK 
YAKUTAT 
Std 
 
RJCM 
RJ 
MMB 
MEMANBETSU 
Std 
 
UASK 
UA 
UKK 
UST-KAMENOGORSK 
Std 
 
UATG 
UA 
GUW 
ATYRAU 
Std 
 
UEEE 
UE 
YKS 
YAKUTSK 
Std 
 
UERR 
UE 
MJZ 
MIRNY 
Std 
 
UGTB 
UG 
TBS 
TBILISI 
Std 
 
UIII 
UI 
IKT 
IRKUTSK 
Std 
 
UKBB 
UK 
KBP 
BORYSPIL' 
Std 
 
ULAA 
UL 
ARH 
TALAGI 
Std 
 
ULLI 
UL 
LED 
PULKOVO 
Std 
 
UMMS 
UM 
MSQ 
MINSK-2 
Std 
 
UNKL 
UN 
KJA 
YEMELYANOVO 
Std 
 
UNNT 
UN 
OVB 
TOLMACHEVO 
Std 
 
URWW 
UR 
VOG 
GUMRAK 
Std 
 
USCC 
US 
CEK 
BALANDINO 
Std 
 
USSS 
US 
SVX 
KOLTSOVO 
Std 
 
UUDD 
UU 
DME 
DOMODEDOVO 
Std 
 
UUEE 
UU 
SVO 
SHEREMETYEVO 
Std 
 
UWOR 
UW 
OSW 
ORSK 
Std 
 
UWUU 
UW 
UFA 
UFA 
Std 
 
UWWW 
UW 
KUF 
KUMRUMOCH 
Std 
 
VANP 
VA 
NAG 
DR. AMBEDKAR INTL 
Std 
 
VECC 
VE 
CCU 
NETAJI SUBHASH 
Std 
 
 
 
 CHANDRA BOSE IN 
 
 
VGHS 
VG 
DAC 
HAZRAT SHAHJALAL 
Std 
 
 
 
 INTL 
 
 
VVNB 
VV 
HAN 
NOI BAI INTL 
Std 
 
VYMD 
VY 
MDL 
MANDALAY INTL 
Std 
 
ZBMZ 
ZB 
NZH 
XIJIAO 
Std 
 
ZGKL 
ZG 
KWL 
LIANGJIANG 
Std 
 
ZLLL 
ZL 
ZGC 
ZHONGCHUAN 
Std 
 
ZLXY 
ZL 
XIY 
XIANYANG 
Std 
 
ZPPP 
ZP 
KMG 
CHANGSHUI 
Std 
 
ZUCK 
ZU 
CKG 
JIANGBEI 
Std 
 
ZUGY 
ZU 
KWE 
LONGDONGBAO 
Std 
 
ZWSH 
ZW 
KHG 
KASHI 
Std 
 
 
 
TABLE 3 
 
 
 
Selection Criteria for NAVDB: F77 
 
Select Records by List 
 
 
 
ENROUTE AIRWAY to be INCLUDED 
 
 
 Area Code 
Route Ident 
 
 
 
 
 1 
% 
P184 
 
 
 
 
ENROUTE WAYPOINT to be INCLUDED 
 
 
 Waypoint Icao 
Waypoint Ident 
 
 
 
 
 1 
MM 
 
 
 2 
RJ 
 
 
 3 
VH 
 
 
 4 
VH 
 
 
 5 
VH 
 
 
 6 
VH 
 
 
 7 
VH 
 
 
 8 
MY 
 
 
 9 
K5 
 
 
 10 
K7 
 
 
 11 
K7 
 
 
 12 
K2 
 
 
 13 
K5 
 
 
 14 
CY 
 
 
 15 
CY 
 
 
 16 
K6 
 
 
 17 
K7 
 
 
 18 
K5 
 
 
 19 
K5 
 
 
 20 
K5 
 
 
 21 
K3 
 
 
 22 
CY 
 
 
 23 
K5 
 
 
 24 
K5 
 
 
 25 
K5 
 
 
 26 
K6 
 
 
 27 
K5 
 
 
 28 
K5 
 
 
 29 
K3 
 
 
 30 
K6 
 
 
 31 
K6 
 
 
 32 
K6 
 
 
 33 
K2 
 
 
 34 
K5 
 
 
 35 
K5 
 
 
 36 
K5 
 
 
 37 
K5 
 
 
 38 
K5 
 
 
 39 
K5 
 
 
 40 
K6 
MEZCA 
 
 41 
K6 
KIJYY 
 
 42 
K6 
MONTA 
 
 43 
K4 
GOBBI 
 
 44 
K5 
ROCKY 
 
 45 
K5 
TOFEE 
 
 46 
K5 
MULET 
 
 47 
K5 
ACMEE 
 
 48 
K5 
K148Q 
 
 49 
K5 
ILIDO 
 
 50 
K5 
IBUFY 
 
 51 
K5 
GARNE 
 
 52 
K5 
WORDY 
 
 53 
K5 
BACHO 
 
 54 
K2 
LORNA 
 
 55 
K6 
KAYNE 
 
 56 
K2 
ALUTE 
 
 57 
K4 
PROTN 
 
 58 
K2 
EMEGE 
 
 59 
K2 
DUTSH 
 
 60 
K2 
MAHER 
 
 61 
K5 
SAVEX 
 
 62 
K5 
ARLYN 
 
 63 
K6 
ADELL 
 
 64 
BG 
HERAK 
 
 65 
CY 
KELLE 
 
 66 
CY 
DELHI 
 
 67 
CY 
ACCRA 
 
 68 
CY 
HILTY 
 
 69 
CY 
CLOWW 
 
 70 
CY 
ONEPS 
 
 71 
CY 
KEMPR 
 
 72 
K6 
KICHI 
 
 
 
 KC72Q 
 
 
 
 BEKKI 
 
 
 
 BLOKR 
 
 
 
 BACEN 
 
 
 
 MAYJI 
 
 
 
 DUFEE 
 
 
 
 WORRN 
 
 
 
 LYNTT 
 
 
 
 MYNOT 
 
 
 
 MAYJI 
 
 
 
 EMMLY 
 
 
 
 ELNAR 
 
 
 
 EARND 
 
 
 
 CYBIL 
 
 
 
 CARYN 
 
 
 
 CMSKY 
 
 
 
 BIZAR 
 
 
 
 ACITO 
 
 
 
 KC75Q 
 
 
 
 DILNE 
 
 
 
 PEONS 
 
 
 
 BRNAN 
 
 
 
 NWLYN 
 
 
 
 JUNER 
 
 
 
 TATOO 
 
 
 
 INSLO 
 
 
 
 JSICA 
 
 
 
 HIDON 
 
 
 
 BUBBA 
 
 
 
 PSYKO 
 
 
 
 5950N 
 
 
 
 5850N 
 
 
 
 5350N 
 
 
 
 5250N 
 
 
 
 5150N 
 
 
 
 5050N 
 
 
 
 4950N 
 
 
 
 4850N 
 
 
 
 4350N 
 
 
 
At step 504, custom procedures associated with the locations can be reviewed and removed from the data structure. In one aspect, a review of the procedures associated with all these airports can be performed. Customized procedures can be assessed to determine the applicability, currency, and/or redundancy of the customized procedures. In one aspect, customized procedures can be removed and replaced with standard data. For example, RNAV visual flight procedures (RVFPs) associated with locations can be removed, especially if the RVFPs are associated with a location that is not associated with the first category. Other removals of data from the data structure can be performed on a gradual basis over successive data structure generation cycles. As the data is removed during each generation of the successive data structure, the impact on operation and management of the vehicle can be assessed.
At step 506, custom waypoints can be reviewed and removed. In one aspect, removal of custom waypoints can be performed on a gradual basis during several cycles of generating data structures. For example, custom waypoints can be ranked according to priority of keeping the custom waypoints in the data structure. The lowest priority custom waypoints can be removed before higher priority custom waypoints. As a further example, custom waypoints that are further from a navigational path and/or destination can be removed. Custom waypoints that are associated with alternate and/or emergency destinations can be removed. The custom waypoints can be removed gradually as a predefined amount of time or data structure build cycles pass since the custom waypoint was last relevant to used in) the travel of the vehicle (e.g., airplane).
At step 508, waypoints can be selected for inclusion and/or exclusion from the data. Waypoints can be selected based on search criteria. For example, waypoints can be excluded and/or included based on search criteria. In one aspect, waypoints can be included if the waypoint is included on an include list. For example, terminal waypoints can be selected. Terminal waypoints can be waypoints that are coded as related to a location, but not necessarily associated with a procedure. As a further example, terminal waypoints can comprise enroute waypoints and noncompulsory reporting points. In one aspect, procedure referenced waypoints can be selected. Procedure reference waypoints can be a subset of the terminal and enroute waypoints. Procedure referenced waypoints can comprise waypoints that are part of a named procedure. In another aspect, step down waypoints can be reviewed and removed. For example, a step down waypoint (e.g., step down fix) can be a named fix after a final approach fix (FAF). Step down waypoints may depend on FMC design. For example, some FMC may exclude step down waypoints (e.g., due to safety concerns). As an example, step down waypoints may not be included at all inside the final approach fix (FAF) but may allow FAF back to the Initial approach fix (IAF). As a further illustration, 
In a further aspect, orphaned waypoints can be selected. Orphaned waypoints can comprise waypoints that are not compulsory reporting points or can be referenced points derived from operational reports. These points can comprise an include list. Should a report of a needed waypoint be garnered from Dispatch or an Ops Report, consideration for inclusion into an Orphaned waypoint list can be recommended. By way of further explanation, some waypoints can be excluded from the data based on the search criteria. In some scenarios, a portion of the excluded waypoints may be later desired for inclusion in the data. For example, orphaned waypoints are waypoints previously excluded that were later found to be desired for inclusion in the data due to operational necessity. These orphaned waypoints can be added to a special list for inclusion (e.g., during each cycle in compiling a data structure). In one aspect, orphaned waypoints can be added based on an in-service report from a crew or dispatch. For example, a country (e.g., China) might label a waypoint as a significant terminal waypoint without associating the waypoint with any named procedure. Such waypoint may be excluded from a data structure of a vehicle based on the search criteria. Such exclusion may not be desirable because if a waypoint tends to be used by Air Traffic Control. Additionally, flight clearances may be commonly used with these waypoints. Thus, it can be desirable to include such waypoint on the orphaned waypoint list (e.g., include list). Data for such waypoint can be included in a data structure based on the orphaned waypoint list.
In one aspect, any upgrading of additional locations or special features added can be documented as post-baseline addendums. Accurate documentation not only keeps a record of validated contents but also enhances redaction options when active management thresholds are exceeded 95%, 90% total capacity). In one aspect, managing the data structure contents can be a monthly event in line with the ARINC cycle. As subsequent data structures are generated, the following criteria can used: data structures should be near 90-95 percent (e.g., or lower) of storage capacity of the vehicle, custom data procedures can be avoided (e.g., deleted, purged), standard data can be prioritized over other data, and IAPs can be prioritized for inclusion over VGFP.
In an aspect, the ad hoc location can be categorized under the first category during the first cycle 702. If the ad hoc location is not requested for the second cycle, then the ad hoc location can be categorized under the second location during the second cycle 704. If the ad hoc location is requested again for the second cycle, the ad hoc location can be categorized under the first category 702. If the ad hoc location is not requested for the third cycle, the ad hoc location can be categorized under the third category 706. If the ad hoc location is requested again after the third cycle, then the ad hoc location can be categorized again under the first category 702. If the ad hoc location continues to not be validated or requested after the third data cycle, then the ad hoc location and its associated data can be completely removed from the data in future data structure generation events, such as during a fourth cycle 704.
At step 804, search criteria can be generated based on the categorization of the locations. For example, the search criteria can be configured to select first data for locations categorized with the first category and second data for locations categorized with the second category. In one aspect, the first data can be more detailed than the second data. For example, the first category can specify that certain data requested that is not specified by the second category.
At step 806, information based on the search criteria can be received. For example, the information can comprise a data structure, such as a database configured for a navigation system of the vehicle. The data structure can comprise first data for locations associated with the first category and second data for locations associated with the second category.
At step 808, a storage size of the information can be determined. For example, the storage size can determined based on the amount of hard disk space the information uses when stored on an intermediate device. For example, the data structure may be compressed and/or converted to another format when stored on the device. Accordingly, the storage size for the compressed and/or converted file can be determined.
At step 810, the storage size can be compared to a threshold. In one aspect, the threshold can be a threshold specific to the vehicle. For example, the threshold can be 85, 90, 95, or 100 percent of the storage space of a device, such as a navigation system of the vehicle. At step 812, the search criteria can be refined if the storage size is above the threshold. For example, new search criteria can be determined. In one aspect, the new search criteria can specify that certain types of data be excluded. For example, certain types of data can be excluded from one or more of the categories.
At step 814, the information can be updated based on the refined search criteria. For example, a new data structure can be generated based on the refined data structure, and the new data structure can comprise an updated version of the first data and second data. The new data structure can comprise more or less information, different information, and/or the like from the data structure.
At step 816, the information can be provided to the vehicle. In one aspect, providing the information to the vehicle can comprise uploading the information to a navigational database of a vehicle. For example, the vehicle can comprise an aircraft. For example, the information can be converted to a navigational database file. The information can be uploaded via a network connection, USB stick, direct connection, diskette, and/or the like.
At step 818, a report can be generated based on changes from previous information to the information. The report can be generated at the vehicle, at a station and provided to the vehicle, and/or the like. For example, the report can indicate changes in duties for an agent associated with the vehicle. For example, the agent can be at least one of a pilot associated with the vehicle and a dispatcher associated with the vehicle.
At step 904, a data structure can be generated based on the search criteria. In one aspect, generating the data structure based on the search criteria comprises generating the data structure in a format suitable for a navigational system and associated navigation database of the vehicle. For example, the data structure can be formatted for an electronic flight bag, flight navigational system, and/or the like. The data structure can be formatted according to parameters. For example, the parameters can be indicative of a type of data structure, such as a type of database. The parameters can be indicative of a device, such as a vehicle, on which the data structure is intended to be stored. In another aspect, the data structure can be converted from an ARINC 424 standard data file to a navigation database file of a flight management system of a vehicle.
At step 906, a storage size of the data structure can be determined. For example, the storage size can determined based on the amount of hard disk space the information uses when stored on a device. For example, the hard disk can be analyzed to determine capacity of the hard disk, space used by the data structure, and/or the like. For example, the data structure may be compressed and/or converted to another format when stored on the device. Accordingly, the storage size for the compressed and/or converted file can be determined.
At step 908, the storage size can be compared to a threshold. In one aspect, the threshold can be a threshold specific to the vehicle. For example, the threshold can be 85, 90, 95, or 100 percent of the storage space of a device, such as a navigation system of the vehicle. Additionally, the storage size can be compared to multiple thresholds. The thresholds can be associated with vary levels of notifications, warnings, corrective procedures, and/or the like.
At step 910, a notice that the storage size is above the threshold can be provided. For example, the notice can be provided to a management device used to manage a fleet of vehicles. The notice can be provided as a message pop-up message), electronic notification, email, audible alert, and/or the like. For example, the notice can be transmitted across a network.
At step 912, refined search criteria can be received if the storage size is above the threshold. For example, new search criteria can be received (e.g., search criteria shown in Table 1, Table 2, and/or Table 3 or otherwise described herein). The new search criteria can be received from a user. In one aspect, the new search criteria can specify that certain types of data be excluded. For example, certain types of data can be excluded from one or more of the categories. For example, waypoints, procedures, locations, and/or the like for certain categories can be excluded.
At step 914, the data structure can be updated based on the refined search criteria. For example, a new data structure can be generated based on the refined data structure, and the new data structure can comprise an updated version of the data structure. The new data structure can comprise more or less information, different information, and/or the like from the data structure.
At step 916, a report can be generated based on changes from a previous data structure to the data structure. The report can be generated at the vehicle, at a station and provided to the vehicle, and/or the like. In one aspect, the report can indicate changes in duties for an agent associated with the vehicle. For example, the agent can be at least one of a pilot associated with the vehicle and a dispatcher associated with the vehicle.
At step 918, access can be provided to the data structure. In one aspect, providing access to the data structure can comprise providing a server comprising the data structure. For example, the server can comprise a file transfer protocol server. The data structure can be downloaded from the service and uploaded on to the hard disk of the vehicle.
At step 1004, the storage size of the first data structure can be determined. For example, the storage size can determined based on the amount of hard disk space the information uses when stored on a device. For example, the data structure may be compressed and/or converted to another format when stored on the device. Accordingly, the storage size for the compressed and/or converted file can be determined.
At step 1006, the storage size of the first data structure can be compared to a threshold. In one aspect, the threshold can be a threshold specific to the vehicle. For example, the threshold can be 85, 90, 95, or 100 percent of the storage space of a device, such as a navigation system of the vehicle. Additionally, the storage size can be compared to multiple thresholds. The thresholds can be associated with varying levels of notifications, warnings, corrective procedures, and/or the like.
At step 1008, search criteria can be identified based on travel information of the vehicle. In one aspect, the travel information can comprise at least one of a travel plan and a travel history of the vehicle. The search criteria can also be identified based on the comparison to the threshold. In one aspect, identifying search criteria based on the travel information of the vehicle and the comparison to the threshold can comprise categorizing, based on the travel information associated with the vehicle, first locations according to at least one of a first category and a second category. The first category can indicate planned destinations of the vehicle. The second category can indicate alternate destinations of the vehicle. In another aspect, identifying search criteria based on the travel information of the vehicle and the comparison to the threshold further can comprise categorizing second locations according to a third category, fourth category, or other category. The third category can indicate emergency destinations of the vehicle.
At step 1010, a second data structure associated with the vehicle can be requested based on the search criteria. For example, the second data structure can be requested from a data supplier. The second data structure can comprise locations selected from a database of locations. The second data structure can comprise data associated with the selected locations. For example, the second data structure can comprise procedures (e.g., flight procedures), waypoints, locations, navigational paths, and/or the like.
At step 1012, the second data structure can be provided to the vehicle. In one aspect, providing the second data structure to the vehicle can comprise uploading the second data structure to a navigational database of a vehicle. For example, the second data structure can be converted to a navigational database file. The second data structure can be uploaded via, a network connection, USB stick, direct connection, diskette, and/or the like.
At step 1014, a report can be generated. The report can be generated at the vehicle, at a station and provided to the vehicle, and/or the like. For example, the report can be generated based on changes from the first data structure to the second data structure. The report can indicate changes in duties for an agent associated with the vehicle. The example, the agent can be at least one of a pilot associated with the vehicle and a dispatcher associated with the vehicle.
In an exemplary aspect, the methods and systems can be implemented on a computer 1101 as illustrated in 
The present methods and systems can be operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments or configurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments, and/or configurations that can be suitable for use with the systems and methods comprise, but are not limited to, personal computers, server computers, laptop devices, and multiprocessor systems. Additional examples comprise set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments that comprise any of the above systems or devices, and the like.
The processing of the disclosed methods and systems can be performed by software components. The disclosed systems and methods can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules comprise computer code, routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The disclosed methods can also be practiced in grid-based and distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices.
Further, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the systems and methods disclosed herein can be implemented via a general-purpose computing device in the form of a computer 1101. The components of the computer 1101 can comprise, but are not limited to, one or more processors or processing units 1103, a system memory 1112, and a system bus 1113 that couples various system components including the processor 1103 to the system memory 1112. In the case of multiple processing units 1103, the system can utilize parallel computing.
The system bus 1113 represents one or more of several possible types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. By way of example, such architectures can comprise an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) bus, and a Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI), a PCT-Express bus, a Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association (PCMCIA), Universal Serial Bus (USB) and the like. The bus 1113, and all buses specified in this description can also be implemented over a wired or wireless network connection and each of the subsystems, including the processor 1103, a mass storage device 1104, an operating system 1105, navigation software 1106, navigation data 1107, a network adapter 1108, system memory 1112, an Input/Output Interface 1110, a display adapter 1109, a display device 1111, and a human machine interface 1102, can be contained within one or more remote computing devices 1114a,b,c at physically separate locations, connected through buses of this form, in effect implementing a fully distributed system.
The computer 1101 typically comprises a variety of computer readable media. Exemplary readable media can be any available media that is accessible by the computer 1101 and comprises, for example and not meant to be limiting, both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. The system memory 1112 comprises computer readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM). The system memory 1112 typically contains data such as navigation data 1107 and/or program modules such as operating system 1105 and navigation software 1106 that are immediately accessible to and/or are presently operated on by the processing unit 1103.
In another aspect, the computer 1101 can also comprise other removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media. By way of example, 
Optionally, any number of program modules can be stored on the mass storage device 1104, including by way of example, an operating system 1105 and navigation software 1106. Each of the operating system 1105 and navigation software 1106 (or some combination thereof) can comprise elements of the programming and the navigation software 1106. Navigation data 1107 can also be stored on the mass storage device 1104. Navigation data 1107 can be stored in any of one or more databases known in the art. Examples of such databases comprise, DB2®, Microsoft® Access, Microsoft® SQL Server, Oracle®, mySQL, PostgreSQL, and the like. The databases can be centralized or distributed across multiple systems.
In another aspect, the user can enter commands and information into the computer 1101 via an input device (not shown). Examples of such input devices comprise, but are not limited to, a keyboard, pointing device (e.g., a “mouse”), a microphone, a joystick, a scanner, tactile input devices such as gloves, and other body coverings, and the like These and other input devices can be connected to the processing unit 1103 via a human machine interface 1102 that is coupled to the system bus 1113, but can be connected by other interface and bus structures, such as a parallel port, game port, an IEEE 1394 Port (also known as a Firewire port), a serial port, or a universal serial bus (USB).
In yet another aspect, a display device 1111 can also be connected to the system bus 1113 via an interface, such as a display adapter 1109. It is contemplated that the computer 1101 can have more than one display adapter 1109 and the computer 1101 can have more than one display device 1111. For example, a display device can be a monitor, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), or a projector. In addition to the display device 1111, other output peripheral devices can comprise components such as speakers (not shown) and a printer (not shown) Which can be connected to the computer 1101 via Input/Output Interface 1110. Any step and/or result of the methods can be output in any form to an output device. Such output can be any form of visual representation, including, but not limited to, textual, graphical, animation, audio, tactile, and the like. The display 1111 and computer 1101 can be part of one device, or separate devices.
The computer 1101 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computing devices 1114a,b,c. By way of example, a remote computing device can be a personal computer, portable computer, smartphone, a server, a router, a network computer, a peer device or other common network node, and so on. Logical connections between the computer 1101 and a remote computing device 1114a,b,c can be made via a network 1115, such as a local area network (LAN) and/or a general wide area network (WAN). Such network connections can be through a network adapter 1108. A network adapter 1108 can be implemented in both wired and wireless environments. Such networking environments are conventional and commonplace in dwellings, offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet.
For purposes of illustration, application programs and other executable program components such as the operating system 1105 are illustrated herein as discrete blocks, although it is recognized that such programs and components reside at various times in different storage components of the computing device 1101, and are executed by the data processor(s) of the computer. An implementation of navigation software 1106 can be stored on or transmitted across some form of computer readable media. Any of the disclosed methods can be performed by computer readable instructions embodied on computer readable media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example and not meant to be limiting, computer readable media can comprise “computer storage media” and “communications media.” “Computer storage media” comprise volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any methods or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Exemplary computer storage media comprises, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory, technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by a computer.
The methods and systems can employ Artificial Intelligence techniques such as machine learning and iterative learning. Examples of such techniques include, but are not limited to, expert systems, case based reasoning, Bayesian networks, behavior based AI, neural networks, fuzzy systems, evolutionary computation (e.g. genetic algorithms), swarm intelligence (e.g. ant algorithms), and hybrid intelligent systems (e.g. Expert inference rules generated through a neural network or production rules from statistical learning).
While the methods and systems have been described in connection with preferred embodiments and specific examples, it is not intended that the scope be limited to the particular embodiments set forth, as the embodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive.
Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.
Throughout this application, various publications are referenced. The disclosures of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which the methods and systems pertain.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
Hills, Larry, Armstrong, Ross, Sosa, Carlos
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| Aug 27 2020 | HILLS, LARRY | Federal Express Corporation | ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 053733 | /0788 | |
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